Baghdad: Acting Minister of Youth and Sports, Mohammed Nouri, announced the ministry’s vision and programs on Saturday, marking International Youth Day. He emphasized that the government has prioritized the youth sector in its ministerial program, making their empowerment and the enhancement of their role in public life and decision-making a key objective.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, during the central celebration of International Youth Day, the minister stated, “The ministry will work to activate the role of youth forums, develop capabilities, and nurture talents and initiatives.” Nouri outlined several strategic initiatives that will be implemented in collaboration with international organizations, national institutions, and the private sector.

The first initiative involves the establishment of job search clubs in Baghdad and the provinces to develop young people’s skills and assist them in accessing employment opportunities. The second is the Green Renaissance programs, designed to enhance youth participation in climate action and support their environmental initiatives.

Additionally, the ministry plans to launch the National Youth and Climate Action Group. This platform aims to facilitate youth participation and convey their perspectives on climate issues. Following this, there are youth innovation and entrepreneurship programs intended to support young people’s ideas and transform them into viable and sustainable initiatives.

Another significant program is the second national edition of the Community Innovation Challenge, which seeks to discover innovative youth ideas and support the solutions they offer to tackle challenges in their communities. Leadership and empowerment programs specifically for girls are also on the agenda, focusing on developing leadership skills and enhancing girls’ participation in initiatives and decision-making.

Nouri further announced the 2026 Job Fair, which aims to connect young people directly with job opportunities and private sector companies, thereby opening new pathways for them to enter the labor market. Lastly, the ministry is working on expanding life and digital skills programs to reach a larger number of young people in Baghdad and the provinces, equipping them with skills that meet current demands and the needs of the labor market.